New imaging method to detect early signs of Charcot foot
Official title: Novel Imaging Probe for Early Detection of Charcot Foot
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10593866 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging tool that helps find early signs of Charcot neuroarthropathy, a condition that can cause serious joint problems in your feet and ankles, so that patients can get better diagnoses and treatments before complications arise.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $400,638 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR077322-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10593866 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions that lead to loss of proprioception, such as diabetes or neuropathy, who are at risk for developing Charcot neuroarthropathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have risk factors for Charcot neuroarthropathy or those with established cases of the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel imaging probe designed to detect early signs of Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN), a condition that leads to severe joint degeneration in the foot and ankle. The approach involves using a specific molecular imaging probe that targets a protein called Cathepsin K, which is overexpressed in patients with CN. By identifying this protein early, the goal is to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for patients at risk of severe complications, including amputation. The study aims to provide a reliable method for early detection, which is currently lacking in clinical practice.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of Charcot foot, potentially reducing the risk of severe complications and improving patient quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using molecular imaging techniques for early detection of bone diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective for Charcot foot as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shin, Laura — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Shin, Laura
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.